6-7 October 2026, Trondheim, Norway
Join us for our Final Conference Climate Positive Circular Communities
Learn More •
6-7 October 2026, Trondheim, Norway
Join us for our Final Conference Climate Positive Circular Communities
Learn More •
6-7 October 2026, Trondheim, Norway
Join us for our Final Conference Climate Positive Circular Communities
Learn More •
6-7 October 2026, Trondheim, Norway
Join us for our Final Conference Climate Positive Circular Communities
Learn More •
6-7 October 2026, Trondheim, Norway
Join us for our Final Conference Climate Positive Circular Communities
Learn More •
6-7 October 2026, Trondheim, Norway
Join us for our Final Conference Climate Positive Circular Communities
Learn More •
6-7 October 2026, Trondheim, Norway
Join us for our Final Conference Climate Positive Circular Communities
Learn More •
6-7 October 2026, Trondheim, Norway
Join us for our Final Conference Climate Positive Circular Communities
Learn More

More Information

Urban energy geostructures for new buildings

DESCRIPTION:

Integration of urban energy geostructures within the new nearly zero energy building in Trento. The system combines structural building elements (foundation slab and walls) with shallow geothermal energy exchange functions to support low-carbon heating and cooling. 

The solutions include the thermal activation of the foundation slab through embedded pipe circuits and the thermal activation of retaining walls using GeothermSkin technology. GeothermSkin transforms underground building surfaces into shallow geothermal collectors by applying modular hydraulic panels containing polymeric pipe networks to earth-contact walls. 

BUSINESS ROUTE

Target Users

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VALUE

The solution addresses the challenge of integrating renewable thermal energy systems in dense urban areas where available land for conventional geothermal installations is limited. By using underground structural surfaces for heat exchange, the system supports renewable energy production without additional land occupation. This solution supports the development of nearly zero energy buildings through integrated heating and cooling solutions, using not only the exposed surfaces but also the underground envelope of buildings for renewable energy production.
Aerial view of the thermally activated foundation slab in the new ARV Hub building in the ex Zuffo area in Trento.
The Geothermskin energy system applied to the walls of the new ARV Hub building in the ex Zuffo area in Trento.

APPLICATION

The technology can be implemented in both new construction and refurbishment projects. In new buildings, the system is installed after completion of structural works and before backfilling. In refurbishment projects, excavation is required to expose the underground wall surfaces before installation. The modular nature of the system enables adaptation to different building typologies and underground conditions, supporting replication in both new construction and refurbishment projects in urban environments. The technology can also be combined with other renewable energy systems, such as photovoltaic panels or solar thermal solutions, to support more self-sufficient and low-carbon building energy systems. The Trento demonstration provides practical experience regarding installation, integration, and operational performance of urban energy geostructures in dense urban contexts.

POTENTIAL IMPACT

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FUNDING:

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